The Little-Known Nature Preserve In Kentucky You’ll Want To Explore

Kentucky’s natural beauty is truly unmatched and we love discovering new places to explore and experience it. Tucked away outside of Lexington is Floracliff Nature Sanctuary, a 346-acre nature preserve that hosts guided hikes and events throughout the year. This beautifully unique area shows off the natural wonder of our state and it’s definitely a place you’ll want to explore for yourself.

Floracliff Nature Sanctuary, located in Fayette County, was established in 1986 and dedicated as a State Nature Preserve in 1996.

The preserve was founded by Dr. Mary Wharton, who acquired a total of 287 acres between the years of 1958 and 1989. She passed away in 1991, leaving behind the Non-Profit, which continues to thrive today.

The preserve is characterized by its diverse landscape, wildlife, and foliage.

The 346 acres are located in the palisades region of the Kentucky River and include a combination of steep slopes, mixed hardwood forests, Kentucky River bottomlands, swiftly running tributary streams and limestone palisades. One of the main features is the 61-foot Elk Lick Falls, which you can now see on one of the guided tours.

The preserve is not open to the public, but you can participate in guided hikes, events and volunteer opportunities.

The property is beautiful all year long with blooming wildflowers, icy creeks, and thick, green forests. In an effort to preserve this Sanctuary, the guided tours will teach you about the land and of course a great way to help is always to volunteer your time.

Floracliff Nature Sanctuary may continue to be a hidden gem, as it should be, but you can still appreciate this unique part of the Bluegrass State.

Keep an eye on their website, linked below, for all of the upcoming events and you can look forward to witnessing the stunning beauty of this nature preserve yourself.

Floracliff Nature Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Kentucky where they are working hard to preserve and celebrate our state’s natural beauty. Have you heard of this preserve? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Floracliff Nature Sanctuary is located at 8000 Elk Lick Falls Rd., Lexington, KY 40515. For more information and to keep an eye out for upcoming hiking opportunities, events and volunteer days, visit their website here.

And for another beautiful hiking spot in Kentucky, check out our previous article here.